'Not love jihad': Mahakumbh viral girl Monalisa defends interfaith marriage
What's the story
Monalisa Bhosle, who shot to fame as the "Mahakumbh girl," has defended her recent interfaith marriage with actor-model Farman Khan. The couple tied the knot at a temple in Kerala on Wednesday. Speaking at a press conference in Thiruvananthapuram later, Bhosle, who hails from Madhya Pradesh, dismissed allegations of "love jihad" and clarified that neither she nor Khan converted their religion for their marriage.
Statement
Bhosle addresses age rumors, reaffirms respect for all religions
Bhosle said, "I got married according to Hindu rituals. It is not 'love jihad.' I respect all religions and consider every religion equal." The couple's decision to marry in Kerala was influenced by the state's supportive and harmonious environment. Bhosle also addressed rumors about her age, calling them "fake and incorrect," and confirmed she is 18 years old. Reportedly, she showed a birth certificate that lists her year of birth as 2008.
Family dynamics
Father upset over marriage, but will try to convince him
Her husband confirmed their marriage was registered, which would not have been possible if she were underage. Bhosle revealed that her father, who accompanied her to Kerala, was upset about the marriage. "He came here with me, but he is a little angry now. We will try to convince him later," she said. The social media sensation said that her family wanted her to marry her aunt's son, and she was against that.
Love story
Couple's plans to settle in Kerala
Bhosle and Khan dated for about six months. According to Hindustan Times, they became friends on social media and then met on a film set. Khan said, "We met during a shoot for the film. We were working together." He also revealed that Bhosle had proposed to him first, and he'd initially declined the offer. Bhosle had to convince the Uttar Pradesh man.
Viral sensation
Who is Monalisa Bhosle?
Bhosle shot to fame during the 2025 Mahakumbh Mela, where her videos and photographs went viral on social media. Since then, she has built a significant online following and often remains in the spotlight for her public appearances and personal updates. Filmmaker Sanoj Mishra offered her a film soon after, however, he courted opposition from many who alleged he was exploiting Bhosle's virality. Later, Mishra was arrested in a rape case. Following this, Bhosle signed a Malayalam film, Nagamma.